7 Simple Tips To Totally Refreshing Your Car Ignition Lock
Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that stops you from starting your car unless you have the original key. It is activated when you use the wheel to provide support while getting out or in your vehicle or even touch it when parked.
It can be triggered also by vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if it is struggling to turn it.
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is a vital part of your vehicle. It is one of the first parts that you switch on when you start your car and also triggers most other systems. When it fails it could cause numerous issues.
Wear and tear is the main cause of a car ignition switch breaking. It can happen over time, especially when you have other items on your keychain that are weighing it down. You can prevent this by having separate sets of keys for your house and car, as well as by reducing the weight on your keychain. Another reason is mechanical issues. If the ignition cylinder is incorrectly aligned, it will make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the situation, you will need to replace it.
Your ignition switch could also be failing due to an electrical problem. In this instance you may smell smoke or a burning odor when you attempt to start your car. If you do, it's important to have it replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
The ignition switch may be stuck in the ON position. This is an security feature that stops anyone from taking out your key and then starting the engine. This usually indicates that you're applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or your key isn't functioning properly.
You can try lubricating your lock inside the second case to see if that helps. This will release any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, and you can try it again. You can also try a silicone-based lubricant, which will help to keep dirt from accumulating within the lock. If you're still having trouble try wiggle your key and then inserting it again.
The lock is a cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder on a car is the mechanical part into which the key is placed to allow the vehicle to start the vehicle. The pins inside the cylinder move up and down, allowing the key to enter and turn. It also has wafer tumblers that hold the pins in the right position. Over time, the tumblers may fail or break and prevent the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail completely, leading to an unresponsive battery and other problems with the car's start.
Cylinder locks are the most well-known type of car lock. The outer shell features a cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The outer shell of a cylinder lock is typically constructed of steel. The plug is often brass or bronze. Cylinder locks come with a variety of different pins, which permit them to lock or unlock in various ways. Some come with additional security features, such as snap lines or other pins to guard against lock bumping and other kinds of lock picking.
Although it is possible to repair a difficult lock cylinder using graphite or WD-40 these solutions typically don't last for long. A more reliable solution is to buy a brand new ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by removing the old lock out of your car, and replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder will also require new keys.
The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder is typically less than $300 for the standard systems. Some vehicles have electronic locks, which are more expensive to replace. It is essential that the process of replacing the ignition cylinder is done by an accredited professional. This is because the procedure involves removing any parts that may interfere with the restraint systems that are supplemental (airbags).
You'll need to unplug the negative battery cable before you replace the battery. This is required to prevent an airbag from being accidentally deployed. You will also want to turn off any airbag system if your vehicle is equipped with it. You must follow all instructions from the factory. You'll need reset the anti-theft codes following installation of the new ignition lock. This will prevent your vehicle from being stolen and may require the use of a particular tool.
The most important
If you turn your ignition key but it won't start your car, this could be a sign that your ignition lock isn't working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the right key is used to operate your car. It's a mechanical component that is connected to an electrical component to "read" anti-theft codes to allow your vehicle to start. In time the key could damage or wear out the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder, which makes it difficult to turn.
While replacing your key is typically the best solution however, you can also try basic troubleshooting to help resolve the ignition issue of your car at home. First, ensure that your key is in the right position in the shifter, and that the indicator on the shifter is directed at the P (Park) slot. If not, it could prevent the vehicle from starting. It is possible to consult with your dealer to determine what is the reason for the issue.
You can also turn the ignition key, but don't apply too much force or pressure.
car ignition lock replacement will help remove any small damage to the wafer tumblings that is preventing it from rotating. If this doesn't work, you can try making the lock cylinder lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant to get it moving again.
These lubricants can be purchased at your local auto parts store. However, you must make sure to use a premium lubricant to prevent dirt from building up. This will cause more issues down the road. If nothing else works, you'll need to remove the cylinder for ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a fairly simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state might require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to stop drunk driving by requiring the driver to breathe into a tube prior to they can begin their vehicle. The device must be installed only by a service provider that is that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In a lot of vehicles the lock cylinder as well as the ignition switch are connected via wires. When you put your key in the ignition the current flows through these wires and activates all the electrical systems within your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't working or the switch isn't turning on it could be because the wire is disconnected. If you can't determine the root of the issue, you may need to get a new ignition switch or cylinder.
Interlock devices for ignition
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer that has to be installed in your vehicle as part of a criminal penalty or legal requirement. Ignition interlocks are designed to detect alcohol use disorders by analyzing the breath of drivers before the vehicle's engine is able to start. If the IID determines the driver's alcohol level is higher than the permitted limit the alarm will sound, and/or the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle is stopped and the driver is able to repeat the test.
Ignition interlocks are an excellent tool for people with alcohol-related disorders, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to beginning the car. They are small and discreet, so they can be easily hidden away from the view of others to avoid attracting attention. The cost of ignition interlocks ranges from $60-90 per month. They are not purchased in bulk.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are the main electrical components that control your vehicle. The ignition won't work in the event that one of these components is damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one of these issues, it's essential to have them fixed as soon as you can.
If you can't get your vehicle to start, try placing the key in Park or neutral and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might have to remove the airbag and disconnect the battery to get access to the ignition switch. This is typically a simple task, but it may require an instrument to pull the steering wheel or a GM key removal kit, both of which can be rented through AutoZone's loan-a tool program for no cost.